The Ultimate Spain Packing List: Essentials for Every Season

Putting together your Spain packing list and not sure where to start? You’re in the right place!

As a travel blogger that lives in Spain, I’ve learned exactly what to bring (and what to leave behind) to stay comfortable, stylish, and prepared–no matter the season.

In this guide, I’ll break down the essentials to pack for Spain, including season-specific clothing, must-have travel accessories, and practical tips to help you pack light without forgetting anything important.

By the end, you’ll feel fully prepped to explore Spain like a pro–whether you’re heading to the beaches of Barcelona or strolling through the streets of Madrid.

Let’s build your ultimate packing list for Spain together!

🧳 Free Download: Click here to get this Spain packing checklist in PDF format and easily print or save it to your phone for quick reference!

Spain Packing List

Here’s a breakdown of all the essentials to pack for your Spain trip:

Travel Documents

First things first, make sure to pack all of your necessary documents for international travel:

• Passport: Of course, the most important thing to bring is your passport. Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months before your trip.

• Driver’s License: Don’t forget to bring a photo ID with you as well, especially if you plan to rent a car in Spain.

• Money (Cash): Euros are the standard currency in Spain, so bring some cash for small purchases or local markets. Many places do accept credit cards but it’s best to have some cash on hand just in case.

• Credit & Debit Cards: I recommend bringing a travel-friendly credit card with no foreign transaction fees. I personally use the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, which has great travel benefits as well.

• Travel Insurance: Although not mandatory, I’d highly recommend having travel insurance in case of any emergencies or unexpected situations. Make sure you have proof of insurance and any necessary contact information with you at all times.

Clothing

Packing clothes for Spain involves a bit of strategy. Spain’s diverse climates mean you’ll want options for layering and staying comfortable no matter the season.

Here’s how to approach each one:

All Seasons

Regardless of when you visit Spain, some basics will always come in handy:

• Shirts and Tops: Make sure to pack a variety of shirts and tops that you can mix and match. Try to stick to neutral colors that pair well with multiple outfits.

• Pants & Jeans: Pack a few pairs of pants and jeans. Wide-leg linen pants are a popular option especially in warmer areas.

• Activewear/Loungewear: While Spaniards are known for dressing up, I’d still recommend bringing some activewear or loungewear, whether it’s for the flight or for outdoor activities.

• Pajamas: Don’t forget to pack comfortable pajamas for a good night’s sleep.

• Underwear: Pack enough underwear for your trip, as well as a few extra pairs.

• Bras and Sports Bras: Bring a few bras and strapless bras to match your outfits. If you plan to work out or do any active outdoor activities, make sure to pack a few sports bras as well.

• Socks: Bring enough socks for your trip to wear with your shoes and sneakers. I’d also highly recommend picking up a pair of compression socks for the plane–these have made a huge difference in keeping my feet from swelling on long flights!

Spring

Spain’s weather in Spring can be unpredictable, so think layers. Here’s what to pack for Spain in spring:

• Raincoat / Waterproof Jacket: Spring can bring unexpected rain showers so pack a lighter raincoat or waterproof rain jacket to stay dry.

• Waterproof Shoes: Bring a pair of waterproof shoes or rain boots to keep your feet dry and comfortable.

• Layers: Bring a variety of layers like light sweaters and long-sleeved shirts that can be removed when the sun comes out.

• Dresses & Long Skirts: Spring is the perfect season for light, flowy dresses and long skirts. These items are versatile and can easily be dressed up or down.

Summer

Summer in Spain can be scorching, especially in southern Spain. Barcelona and Madrid can also have hot, humid days in the warmer months of summer.

Here’s what to pack for Spain in summer:

• Tank Tops & Short Sleeve Tops: Bring a variety of tank tops, short sleeve shirts, and sleeveless tops that you can pair with a variety of outfits.

• Shorts: Pack a few pairs of shorts for warmer days, but make sure they are appropriate for the places you plan to visit. Some churches and religious sites in Spain have dress codes that require covering your shoulders and knees.

• Skirts: Skirts are a great option for staying cool and comfortable in the summer heat. Opt for lightweight, flowy fabrics like linen or cotton.

• Summer Dresses: Pack a few light, flowy summer dresses that can easily transition from day to night.

• Light Jacket or Cardigan: While the summer months can be hot, nights can still get cooler. Bring a light jacket, cardigan, or blazer to stay comfortable during evenings out.

• Swimsuit: Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit or two if you’re planning to spend time at the beach or around the pool.

• Swimsuit Coverup: A light coverup is great for throwing on over your swimsuit when going to and from the beach or pool.

Fall

Fall is similar to spring, with cool mornings and warmer afternoons.

Here’s what to pack for Spain in fall:

• Long-Sleeve Shirts: Pack a few long-sleeve shirts or blouses that can easily be layered.

• Sweaters: Bring a couple of lighter sweaters or cardigans to keep you warm on cooler days.

• Warmer Jacket: A warmer jacket like a trench coat or leather jacket is perfect for fall weather.

• Boots / Closed-Toe Shoes: As the weather cools down, opt for closed-toe shoes like comfortable boots or sneakers to keep your feet warm.

Winter

If you’re visiting Spain in winter, especially in the northern regions, it can get pretty chilly so you’ll want to pack plenty of warm layers.

Here’s what to pack for Spain in winter:

• Long-Sleeve Shirts: Bring a few long-sleeve shirts or blouses to layer under sweaters.

• Sweaters: Pack a variety of heavier sweaters or cardigans to keep you warm.

• Warmer Coat: Bring a heavier coat like a pea coat or lighter parka to stay warm in cold temperatures.

• Boots / Closed-Toe Shoes: Pack comfortable boots or closed-toe shoes to keep your feet warm and dry in cooler weather.

• Scarf: A scarf is a versatile accessory that can add warmth and style to any outfit. You can even opt for one of these travel scarfs with a hidden pocket for added security.

• Beanie / Hat: Bring a winter beanie or wool hat to keep your head warm and protect your ears from the cold days and nights.

• Gloves: You probably won’t need gloves in most parts of Spain but if you’ll be spending time in the Basque country or other parts of Northern Spain, they may come in handy.

Tip: Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space in your suitcase and keep your clothes organized. This will also make it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything.

Shoes

Comfortable shoes can make or break your trip, so bringing the right footwear can make all the difference.

• Comfortable Sneakers: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Spain, so make sure to pack sneakers or comfortable walking shoes. It’s essential to make sure they are broken in and comfortable before your trip.

• Comfortable Sandals: For warm weather, pack a pair of comfortable sandals that you can wear for long periods of time. You may want to opt for a pair with arch support if you plan on doing a lot of walking.

• Flats: Bring along some comfortable flats to wear with a cute pair of jeans or skirts for a more dressed-up look. Just make sure they are broken in!

• Tennis Shoes: If you plan to work out or do any outdoor activities, make sure to pack a pair of tennis shoes.

• Dressy Sandals / Heels: If you’ll be going out to nice dinners or events, bring a pair of dressy sandals or heels to match your outfits.

Bags & Accessories

Staying organized while traveling in Spain can save you so much time and hassle. Here are some essential bags and accessories to bring with you:

• Crossbody Purse / Belt Bag: A crossbody purse or belt bag is one thing you don’t want to come to Spain without! Pickpocketing is unfortunately pretty common in larger cities in Spain so you’ll definitely want to use a crossbody purse or belt bag to keep your belongings close to your body at all times.

• Evening Bag: I’d also recommend bringing a versatile option for an evening bag like a smaller crossbody purse or a clutch with a strap.

• Compact Tote Bag: A compact tote bag is great to use as a beach bag or for carrying groceries and souvenirs.

• Sunglasses: One thing Spain is known for is its sunny weather and Mediterranean climate, so don’t forget to pack a pair of sunglasses to wear while at the beach or when out and about.

• Sun Hat: For extra protection from the sun, pack a cute sun hat that will not only keep you cool but also add style to your outfits.

• Jewelry: Bring a few key pieces of jewelry like earrings, bracelets, and necklaces to dress up your outfits. Just make sure not to bring anything too valuable in case of loss or theft.

• Watch: Don’t forget to bring your favorite watch to wear during your trip. An Apple Watch or other smart watch is a great way to navigate without having to use your phone.

• Laundry Bag: A laundry bag is a handy travel accessory to keep your dirty clothes separate from the clean ones.

Electronics

The right electronics can make your trip more comfortable and convenient. Here are the Spain travel essentials when it comes to electronics:

• Phone: Of course, you’ll want to bring your smartphone to use for navigation, taking photos, and staying connected during your trip.

• Camera: If you have a separate camera or GoPro, bring it along to capture all the beautiful sights and memories of your trip.

• Laptop: If you need to work while traveling, then don’t forget to bring your laptop with a protective carrying case.

• Kindle / E-Reader: For avid readers, bring along a Kindle or E-Reader to save space in your luggage and have easy access to all your favorite books. I’m obsessed with my Kindle Paperwhite and never travel without it!

• Headphones: Pack a pair of headphones for listening to music, movies, podcasts, or audiobooks during your flights or long train rides. I personally have Apple AirPods Pro and love how they are so compact and have noise-canceling features.

• Chargers: Make sure to bring all of the chargers for your electronic devices like your phone, camera, laptop, Apple Watch, electronic toothbrush, and e-reader. Make sure your chargers are dual voltage to be able to use them in Spain. I’d also recommend using this handy electronics organizer case to keep all of your cords organized.

• Selfie Stick: If you’re traveling solo or want to get some great group shots, bring a selfie stick with you.

• Portable Charger / Power Bank: A portable charger or power bank is great to have on hand for long days out exploring when you need to charge your phone or other devices on the go. Your phone will drain quickly from taking photos and using navigation apps, so this is a must-have!

• Travel Adapters: If you’re coming from the US, Canada, UK, or other country outside of Europe, you’ll need a travel adapter to be able to plug in your electronics. I recommend this universal travel adapter that works all around the world. You can also pick up a pack of European travel adapters for extra devices.

• Voltage Converter: I’d highly recommend only bringing dual voltage devices to Spain as some devices like hair dryers and straighteners are still risky to use even with a voltage converter. However, if you really need to bring a device that only works with 110V, then make sure to also pack a voltage converter.

🔌 How can you tell if your device is dual voltage? Check the label in tiny print on your device or charger. If it says that it works with an input of 100-240V, then it is dual voltage and you won’t need a voltage converter.

Toiletries

Here are some essential toiletries and little things to pack for Spain:

Face & Body

Make sure to pack these essential toiletries for your face and body:

• Body Wash
• Face Wash
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Floss
• Deodorant
• Moisturizer / Lotion
• Skincare Products
• Perfume / Cologne
• Tweezers
• Nail Clippers
• Eyeglasses
• Extra Contact Lenses
• Contact Lens Case
• Contact Lens Solution

Tip: Pick up some of these refillable travel-sized perfume bottles to take your favorite perfumes and colognes on the go!

Makeup

Make sure to pack these essential makeup items for your trip to Spain:

• Makeup
• Makeup Brushes
• Makeup Remover
• Q-Tips / Cotton Swabs

Hair Products

Here are some essential hair products to pack for your trip:

• Shampoo & Conditioner: Don’t forget to bring along plenty of shampoo and conditioner for the length of your stay. I use these silicone travel bottles to easily pack my favorite shampoo and conditioner.

• Styling Products: If you use any specific hair styling products like heat protector, hairspray, or dry shampoo, make sure to pack them in travel-sized bottles or pick up some once you arrive in Spain.

• Hair Brush / Comb: Pack a hair brush or teasing comb to keep your hair looking its best during your trip. I use the Wet Brush for detangling and it’s perfect for travel as well.

• Hair Accessories: Bring along your favorite hair accessories like hair ties, claw clips, or scrunchies. These are especially handy for hot days when you want to keep your hair off your neck.

• Hair Dryer (Dual Voltage): As mentioned, it can still be risky to use hair dryers in Spain even with a voltage converter, so I highly recommend only bringing dual voltage hair tools. You can check if your hotel has a hair dryer or purchase a dual voltage hair dryer online before your trip.

• Hair Styling Tools (Dual Voltage): Same goes for hair straighteners, curling irons, and other styling tools. Make sure they are dual voltage or leave them at home.

Medicine & First Aid

Here are some essential items to pack for any potential health issues that may arise during your trip:

• Prescription Medication: Make sure to bring along enough of your prescription medications for the duration of your trip. It’s also a good idea to have a copy of your prescription just in case.

• Over-the-Counter Medication: Pack some common over-the-counter medication for headaches, allergies, and other minor ailments.

• Pepto Bismol: While stomach issues aren’t as common in Spain as other parts of the world, I’d also recommend bringing along some Pepto Bismol or Tums just in case.

• First Aid Kit: Pack a travel-sized first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic cream, and other essentials for any minor injuries.

• Band Aids / Blister Pads: Pack some bandaids and blister pads in case of any blisters from all the walking you’ll be doing.

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the Spanish sun by packing some sunscreen with a high SPF. I recommend using biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen, especially if you plan on swimming in the sea.

• Aloe Vera / After-Sun Lotion: If you’re planning to spend a lot of time in the sun, pack some travel-sized aloe vera or after-sun lotion to soothe any sunburns.

• Insect Repellent: Depending on when you’re traveling to Spain, you may need insect repellent for mosquitoes and other bugs. It’s a great idea to have some on hand just in case.

• Ear Plugs: If you’re a light sleeper or plan on staying in busy cities, pack some ear plugs to help you get a good night’s rest. These also come in handy for long flights or train rides.

Airplane Essentials

Here are some essential items to pack in your carry-on bag for a comfortable and stress-free flight:

• Neck Pillow: If you have a long flight, a neck pillow can make all the difference in getting some rest on the plane. I personally use the Trtl neck pillow, which gives you greater neck and shoulder support.

• Sleep Mask: Block out any light and distractions with a sleep mask for a more restful flight. I bought this eye mask with contoured eye sockets for maximum comfort.

• Bluetooth Adapter: If you’re using wireless headphones, a bluetooth adapter is a must-have for in-flight entertainment systems. For example, I use Apple Airpods and this device allows me to connect them to the plane’s audio system for watching movies.

• Books / Magazines: If you don’t have an E-Reader, pack a book or magazine to keep you entertained during the flight.

• Portable Luggage Scale: A portable luggage scale can save you from any overweight luggage fees at the airport. Simply weigh your bags before heading to the airport to ensure they are within the weight limit.

Miscellaneous

Here are a few miscellaneous things to bring to Spain:

• Water Bottle: Unlike in the US, water doesn’t usually come free in European cities! Save money and reduce plastic waste by bringing along a reusable water bottle on your trip.

• Compact Umbrella: It’s always a good idea to pack a compact travel umbrella for any unexpected rain showers. Weather forecasts are often incorrect and showers can come on quickly!

• Compact Beach Towel: If you’re planning to hit the beaches or coastal areas in Spain, pack a compact beach towel that won’t take up too much space in your luggage. These microfiber beach towels are a great option because they are lightweight and dry quickly.

• Hand Sanitizer: Keep your hands clean and germ-free while on the flight and exploring Spain by packing some travel-sized hand sanitizer.

• Pen: Pack a pen for filling out customs forms on the plane or jotting down any important information during your trip.

Travel Safety

Aside from a crossbody purse and belt bag, here are a couple of other travel safety items I’d recommend bringing to Spain:

• Phone Leash: A phone leash is another one of the travel essentials for Spain! This handy cord attaches to your phone and allows you to attach it to your purse or belt loop, making it harder for someone to snatch it from you.

• Money Belt: If you want to be extra safe, a money belt is another great option for keeping your valuables close to you. You can wear it under your clothes and keep important documents, cash, and credit cards in it.

• Anti-Theft Zippers: These anti-theft zippers are a great way to add an extra layer of security to your bags and backpacks. Simply attach them to the zippers and it makes them harder for someone to quickly open your bag.

Spain Packing Tips

Here are some practical Spain packing tips to help you stay organized and travel light:

• Think layers: Even in spring and fall, temperatures can swing from chilly mornings to sunny afternoons. A light jacket, cardigan, or scarf will help you stay comfortable throughout the day.

• Leave the Dyson hair dryer behind: Unless your hair tools are dual voltage, skip packing them. Most hotels provide a hair dryer, and using a high-powered device with a voltage converter can damage your tools–or worse, blow a fuse.

• Use a crossbody purse or belt bag: Pickpocketing can be an issue in tourist-heavy areas, especially in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. A crossbody or belt bag keeps your valuables secure and close to your body.

• Pack comfortable shoes (and break them in first): You’ll probably walk way more than you expect–on cobblestones, hills, and city streets. Go for shoes that are both supportive and stylish, and make sure they’re broken in before your trip.

• Bring compression socks for the flight: Long-haul flights can cause swelling and discomfort in your legs and feet. Compression socks make a big difference in keeping your circulation flowing and reducing that post-flight puffiness.

• Go neutral with outfits: Neutrals make mixing and matching easy, so you can pack fewer pieces overall. They also tend to blend in better with locals, who generally favor a more polished and understated look.

• Use packing cubes: Packing cubes help you stay organized and maximize space in your suitcase. They’re especially useful or grouping items by type–and have been a total game changer for me!

Final Thoughts: What to Pack for Spain

I hope this Spain packing list has made getting ready for your trip a little easier and a lot less stressful!

With the right mix of essentials, comfortable outfits, and a few smart accessories, you’ll be ready for anything–from beach days to city strolls to tapas nights.

Just remember to check the weather before you go, pack with your itinerary in mind, and leave a little extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs!

🧳 Free Download: Don’t forget to click here to get this Spain packing checklist in PDF format and easily print or save it to your phone for quick reference!

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